Applebee’s pays tribute to Windsor’s veterans and active military

By Sonia Koshy

This Remembrance Day, the food is on Applebee’s for all veterans and military personnel.

A special menu will be provided and veterans and military personnel can dine from 11 a.m. to noon.

Men and women who served for their country have been given recognition in many ways. Some received medals of honour and purple hearts for their service and others have been thanked personally by those who become aware of their service. Everyone has their way of appreciating their local veterans and for Applebee’s, what better way to show their appreciation than to do what they do best: serve food – for free.

“One thing that we do every single year is we give back to the veterans. We give back by offering a free meal,” said Peter Kennard, general manager at Applebee’s on Huron Church in Windsor.

“What we do on Remembrance Day in our restaurants is our small way to say thank you,” said Jim Coram, chief people officer at Dynapple Management Corporation. “In doing so, we are able to share these overwhelming feelings of joy with not only our men and women of Canada’s military but also our entire Applebee’s team.”

For the past eight years, Applebee’s has served thousands of free meals to current and former service men and women on Remembrance Day.

“It’s one of my favorite days to work in the year,” said Kennard. “Lots of people come in uniforms and share stories.”

“Having the opportunity to speak to members of Canada’s military both currently serving as well as those veterans who gave so much all those years ago makes me very proud that I live in the country I do,” said Coram. “Seeing everyone dressed in their colours, listening to their stories fills me with pride and reminds me of how truly great Canada is.”

Last year, Applebee’s saw about 220 veterans throughout the course of the day. Each year Applebee’s does this, the community is impacted and people appreciate it.

“It’s been very positive,” said Kennard. “People are thankful that we actually recognize them and their efforts.”

“We just really enjoy that we can give back to the community,” said Kennard. “It is an honour to be able to serve them just like they serve for us.”

The “Neighbours Thanking Neighbours” campaign allows guests to celebrate the sacrifices these brave men and women have made on their behalf by leaving a note of gratitude on the ‘Thank You Wall Posters’ at their local Applebee’s or online on the Applebee’s Canada Facebook page.

The complimentary meal is valid for dine in only and requires proof of service. Qualifying proof of service includes: permanent ID card for active personnel, temporary ID card for reservists, veteran’s card or a photograph in uniform or the wearing of their uniform.